In the context of recent events and with Christmas around the corner it seems appropriate to talk about the wonderful children’s book, Madiba Magic. A collection of Mandela’s favourite stories, this compilation contains 32 children’s stories from across Africa, including stories from Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, Nigeria and Morocco, to name a few. The book also tells Malay/Indian tales brought to the Cape of Good Hope centuries ago by artisans and political exiles from the East.
It is through books like this that the history of Africa is being preserved. Many of these stories have been passed down through the generations, but no actual written record of them exists. Madiba Magic immortalises some of our wonderful local tales, including the adventures of the wicked hlakanyana, a trickster well known in Zulu fairy tales for getting the better of his opponents.
Why not make this great book the first item on your Christmas list (if you haven’t done your shopping already!). It would make any little boy or girl delighted, and help to keep the memory of Africa and its people alive and strong.
Madiba Magic retails for around R290 and is available online and through all good book sellers.